The Orlando Magic will open their 2026-27 NBA Cup group play on October 30 against the Toronto Raptors, the league announced Wednesday. This follows their semifinal run in last year’s tournament, where they fell to the eventual champions, the New York Knicks. The Magic’s recent form shows a mixed record, with two wins and three losses in their last five games, including a 116-94 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on May 3, 2026.
What’s the NBA Cup schedule for Orlando?
Orlando’s group play continues with a home game against the Milwaukee Bucks on November 13, followed by road trips to the Brooklyn Nets on November 20 and a return to the Kia Center to face the Detroit Pistons on November 24. The Magic avoided tougher groups, including one featuring the Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Cleveland Cavaliers, which could ease their path to the knockout rounds.
Why this season matters for the Magic
After parting ways with head coach Jamahl Mosley following a first-round playoff exit, the Magic hired Sean Sweeney to lead the team. The NBA Cup provides an early test for Sweeney’s squad, with the Pistons-who eliminated Orlando in the 2025-26 playoffs-posing a key challenge. The Magic’s group also includes the Raptors, Bucks, and Nets, offering a mix of competitive matchups.
What’s new in the NBA Cup format?
The tournament’s fourth season will culminate with the championship game at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on December 11. All 30 teams were grouped based on last season’s records, with six group winners and one wild-card team from each conference advancing to the knockout rounds. While most games count toward regular-season standings, the championship does not. The Magic begin training camp on September 29 at the AdventHealth Training Center.
